Planning a trip from the UK to Thailand for two weeks from mid April 2001. Should we aim for Phuket or Koh Samui for best weather, relaxing and diving? <BR> <BR>Thanks for your help... John.

Thailand is one of my favourite spots. Phuket is dirty, crowded and over touristy. Whilst Koh Smaui has become more developed during recent years, the beaches, islands, food and friendliness of the people are unbeatable. Diving is brilliant!

Thanks Michelle. Can anyone give me an idea what the weather is like in April ?? We are looking for sun. I don't want too much rain, I get enough in the UK all year round! <BR> <BR>Regards, John.

John -- <BR>We were in Koh Samui in April in '99 and I remember at least one very rainy day, although the temperature was still great. It may be the tail end of the rainy season? Phuket may be a better choice if you want to guarantee sunny weather, but Koh Samui definitely has more charm. Either way enjoy! <BR> <BR>Amy

John <BR>April is the hottest month of the year, i would like to add that if you can get to thailand during 12-15th April would be great, because it is the tradition new year for thailand, and there will be celebrated nationwide. <BR>Welcome to this Kingdom.

John, Phuket is way too touristy. We love Koh Samui and have been a few times. I probably shouldn't be sharing this tip, but stay at the south end of Chaweng Beach, where it's quieter, cheaper and has a better beach. You can then take a tuk-tuk (open air taxi) in the evening for less than a dollar each to the busy end of town where there are lots of restaurants and bars. The seafood is fantastic - go to Cafe Thai and lash out on crayfish. There's also a very authentic Italian cafe at the south end of the beach - highly recommended.

Forgot to mention that we were there late April and the weather was fine. If it does rain it will be a thunderstorm and over in an hour or so.

Thanks for all your help and great tips. <BR> <BR>We tend to take 'packages' from the UK, they work out a lot cheaper than booking hotels and flights seperately. We couldn't get the dates we needed for April and have moved the dates up to leave UK March 3rd. Melinda, didn't see your reply until after we booked... but will have to take a look at Southern Chaweng for future reference. <BR> <BR>The Santiburi Dusit resort looked real nice in the brochure, and the ladies decided if my pal and I were going diving, they would make sure they were being 'pampered', so we went for it. <BR> <BR>Looking forward to a great vacation 'in the land of smiles' I'm told. <BR> <BR>Any information on the Santiburi Dusit would be welcome.